London Fire Brigade warning over open fires
Some people are turning to them to save money, instead of using central heating
London Fire Brigade has issued an urgent safety warning following a recent fire in southwest London as rising energy bills hit UK homes.
Fire Investigators say the cause of a significant house fire in New Malden last month involved an open fire being used instead of gas central heating.
The Brigade says it's attended more than 100 fires involving open fires, log burners and heaters in just the last few months alone, and it fears that costly energy bills could result in a surge of fires as people resort to alternative means to heat their homes.
The blaze, which started on Kingston Road at the end of April, is understood to have been caused by combustible items too close to an open fire. The fire was discovered by the resident who had been burning timber on an open fire in his living room to heat his home. He was taken to hospital and the property sustained significant damage.
"Always use a fire guard and keep anything that could catch alight well away."
Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Fire Safety, Charlie Pugsley, said: “We know this is a difficult time and people are thinking about ways to reduce their energy bills, but we’re really concerned that they may be putting lives at risk by doing so.
“If you do have a log burner or an open fire, follow our advice carefully. Almost 30 per cent of fires involving log burners, heaters and traditional open fires are caused by items being placed too close to a heat source. Always use a fire guard and keep anything that could catch alight well away, such as logs and kindling which could be ignited by radiating heat. It’s also important to make sure you have carbon monoxide alarms in your home. You can't taste, see, or smell carbon monoxide fumes, but it can kill in minutes.
“Please also don’t take the risk by using treated wood on fires. Not only can they produce toxic fumes, but they are also more likely to spit embers when burnt, which could set alight to nearby objects.”
London Fire Brigade is urging people to check the safety tips for using heaters, gas fires and open fires.